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Fundamentals of Physical Modeling and Simulations
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:19
Abstract
Mathematical description of different physical phenomena and numerical methods for solving the obtained equations are discussed. The course presents the fundamentals of mathematical modeling including ordinary and partial differential equations along with boundary and initial conditions. Finite Difference Method and Finite Element Method for solving boundary value problems are shown in detail.
Objective
After completing this course a student will understand the main idea of representing physical phenomena with mathematical equations, will be able to apply an appropriate numerical method for solving the obtained equations, and will possess the knowledge to qualitatively evaluate the obtained results.
Content
a. Introduction to physical modeling and simulations b. Numerical methods for solving boundary (initial) value problems b.i. Finite difference method (FDM) b.ii. Finite element method (FEM) c. Boundary (initial) value problems of different physical phenomena c.i. Static and dynamic electric current distribution in solid conductors c.ii. Static und dynamic electric charge transport in semiconductors c.iii. Induced eddy currents in low frequency range (with numerous examples from the area of electrical energy technology) c.iv. Wave propagation in the RF-, microwave-, and optical frequency range (with numerous examples relevant for communication technology) c.v. Static and dynamic temperature distribution in solid bodies (with numerous examples relevant for electrical energy technology) c.vi. Static and dynamic mechanical structural analysis (with numerous examples from the area of MEMS technology)
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes, Matlab programs, exercises and their solutions will be handed out.
Literature
J. Smajic, “How To Perform Electromagnetic Finite Element Analysis”, The International Association for the Engineering Modelling, Analysis & Simulation Community (NAFEMS), NAFEMS Ltd., Hamilton, UK, 2016.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- Open book exam + Calculator
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Fundamentals of Physical Modeling and Simulations |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Fundamentals of Physical Modeling and Simulations |
|
2 h weekly |
| practical/laboratory course | Fundamentals of Physical Modeling and Simulations |
|
1 h weekly |
Offered In
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6th semester: third year core courses (Can be freely combined, a list of detailed recommendations is available under )
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Specialization: Electronics and Photonics (These core courses are particularly recommended for the field of "Electronics and Photonics" but students may choose core courses from all fields freely.)
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Track: Electronics and Photonics (The core courses and specialization courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialize in the area of "Electronics and Photonics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
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Core Courses (These core courses are particularly recommended for the field of "Electronics and Photonics". You may choose core courses form other fields in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 24 credits must be obtained from core courses during the MSc EEIT.)
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